NATALIA PISZCZYK'S CRUELTY IN BUCKIE: DOG STARVATION LEADS TO FIVE-YEAR BAN

In a tragic case that has shocked the community of Buckie, Natalia Piszczyk, born 14 September 2002 and residing at Carnie Place, was found guilty of causing the death of her dog through neglect and starvation. The incident, which occurred in late 2021, involved the suffering and eventual death of Berlin, a young black-and-tan German Shepherd just nine months old.

On November 15, 2021, Piszczyk contacted a veterinary clinic to report that her dog had died. She requested that the animal be collected and cremated, raising initial concerns about the circumstances surrounding Berlin’s death. The following day, two individuals visited Piszczyk’s residence at Carnie Place, Buckie, where they observed the dog’s body laid on a duvet on the front porch. The scene was distressing; the property was cluttered with rubbish, including litter such as a cigarette packet found near and beneath Berlin’s body.

Veterinary examination revealed a heartbreaking picture of neglect. Berlin was severely emaciated, with all ribs and pelvic bones clearly visible, indicating extreme malnutrition. His eyes were sunken, and reddish staining was evident on his paws, signs of prolonged suffering. The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Scottish SPCA) was alerted, and Senior Inspector Lesley Crockett responded to the scene. She described Berlin as one of the thinnest dogs she had ever encountered, emphasizing the severity of his condition.

Inspector Crockett recounted her visit to Berlin’s owner’s address on November 17, 2021, but received no response. She left a card requesting contact and later reached out via email on November 29, 2021, to arrange a formal interview under caution regarding Berlin’s condition. An appointment was scheduled for December 14, 2021, at Piszczyk’s residence.

The post-mortem report, received on November 29, 2021, confirmed that Berlin died from inhalational pneumonia. The report indicated that the respiratory disease was likely present for at least 48 hours, possibly several days, and that it would have been apparent to anyone caring for him. The severity of the pneumonia would have caused noticeable clinical signs, suggesting that proper veterinary care was not sought in time. The autopsy also revealed Berlin’s weight at only 18kg (approximately 2 stone 11 pounds), significantly below the typical weight range of 30 to 40kg for a male Alsatian.

During her visit on December 14, 2021, Inspector Crockett noted the strong smell of dog urine and feces permeating Piszczyk’s home, with the living room carpet visibly stained. Piszczyk admitted that Berlin sometimes refused to eat his food, which she would soak with water, but she did not recognize any signs of illness. Her failure to seek veterinary assistance resulted in unnecessary suffering for Berlin, whose respiratory failure ultimately led to his death, causing him pain and distress.

Defense solicitor Martin O’Neill explained that Piszczyk had been homeless prior to living at Carnie Place with Berlin. He stated, “At the time she wasn’t really capable of looking after herself, let alone anybody or anything else. She did have some concerns for the dog, but as he was still taking water, going for walks and playing, she thought he was just experiencing some temporary difficulties. Her regret had been quite clear. She’s also not someone who’s going to be coming before the court for some other matter. This is something that will stay with her for the rest of her days.”

In court, Piszczyk pleaded guilty to a charge of causing unnecessary suffering to an animal. Sheriff Robert McDonald addressed her directly, stating, “Despite your inexperience it should have been obvious that your dog needed to go to a vet long before it died. Although you’re a first-time offender, I have to take into account the seriousness of the offence, as well as the seriousness with which society regards it.”

Sentencing included 90 hours of unpaid work, a six-month supervision order, and a five-year ban on owning any animals, which will expire in July 2028. The case has drawn widespread condemnation and highlights the importance of animal welfare and responsible pet ownership in Buckie and beyond.